Journalist Emily Maitlis has shared insights into her preparation before interviewing the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, in a now-infamous BBC Newsnight interview in 2019. In a recent interview with Good Housekeeping, the 54-year-old former BBC reporter revealed that she took a moment to herself before the interview, retreating to the toilet to psych herself up. She described how she reminded herself not to hold back in her questions while maintaining courtesy. Maitlis recounted the intense moments before the interview, stating, “I was sort of lecturing myself: ‘don’t interrupt, don’t be rude, don’t forget to be courteous in your address but also don’t pull your punches in the questions’.”
During the interview, Maitlis questioned Prince Andrew about his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including denying allegations made by Virginia Giuffre. The duke later settled a US civil case with Giuffre, though he maintained his denial of any wrongdoing. Reflecting on the aftermath of the interview, Maitlis expressed mixed feelings of pride in her work and a sense of responsibility, with some questioning the impact of the interview on the royal family.
Maitlis also touched on her decision to leave the BBC in 2022, noting that she felt it was a pivotal moment in her 50s to explore new opportunities. Since leaving the BBC, she has been involved in various projects, including appearing on Channel 4’s election night coverage and working on the production of A Very Royal Scandal. The full interview with Maitlis can be found in the November 2024 issue of Good Housekeeping.
Throughout her career, Maitlis has navigated challenging interviews and reported on significant events, showcasing her dedication to journalism and investigative reporting. Her candid reflections provide an intriguing glimpse into the world of high-profile interviews and the impact they can have on both journalists and the subjects involved.